Ask a vet: The common parasite your new pet might have

Question: My puppy had diarrhea and a fecal test showed she had giardia, a parasite in her intestines. Is this common in puppies? Can she pass it on to other dogs at the park, or to me? Dr. Marie McKibbin: Giardia is a relatively common parasite that can infect humans as well as dogs, cats, rodents and beavers. The parasite infects the wall of the bowel and produces cysts, which are passed in the feces. These cysts can infect other animals that ingest food or water that has been contaminated by the giardia cysts. The parasites in the cysts can survive for months in a moist environment.

While it is possible for people to become infected with giardia from a pet, this is very rare. This parasite is fairly specific for its host, meaning dog giardia strains infect only other dogs. Good hygiene practices, such as scooping up the poop in your yard and careful hand-washing, offer the best protection for you and your family, but it isn't possible to completely eliminate the risk of exposure to parasites. Fortunately, giardia infections respond well to treatment, so your pup will grow up to be a normal, healthy pet.

Get crafty with these stylish (and free!) knitting patterns

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Stylish knitting patterns for scarves, hats, bags and more

Alder headband knitting pattern

This Alpaca headband's soft, thick yarn and easy pattern make it a satisfying quick knit. The headband is designed using a simple two-by-two rib pattern with a unique twist. And it's so practical as an ear warmer, you might be tempted to make it in several winter colours.

Stylish knitting patterns for scarves, hats, bags and more

Sundew Hat pom-pom beanie

Quick to knit and extra-cozy, the Sundew Hat is the perfect cold-weather accessory. Whether you are looking to knit a thoughtful last-minute gift or your own quintessential hat, the Sundew Hat is a crowd-pleasing favourite with its classic design and soft texture.

Medallion Mittens

Stylish knitting patterns for scarves, hats, bags and more

Ellenesque Felted Bowl knitting pattern

The Ellenesque Bowls are a practical and stylish solution to all your storage needs. Knitting your own bowl is an easy way to create the perfect size vessel for any purpose, and you can choose from a variety of colour options in our Merino Copito yarn to match your home décor.

Stylish knitting patterns for scarves, hats, bags and more

Knit a stylish winter headband

On those cold, wintry days when you need something warm around your face, grab your knitting needles, hibernate for a weekend and knit up The Stone and Arrow Winter Set. Designed in bulky yarn, The Arrow Headband and The Stone Scarf come together in a snap.

Stylish knitting patterns for scarves, hats, bags and more

Stone Scarf knitting pattern

The Stone Scarf got its name from its 3D texture, created by alternating knits and purls, that resembles a stonewall. The quirky stone-like bumps are tempered by a garter-stitch border and a slipped selvedge for a tidy edge.

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

Winter Wonderland

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

For the Little Fashionista

Joe Fresh's new collection of sweet and stylish jewellery for kids features bright and hypoallergenic pieces inspired by travel, nature and friendship. New and exclusive to Shoppers Drug Mart. Starting at $6.

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

The Christmas "It Toy"

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

Sparkling Stocking Stuffers

Joe Fresh's new collection of sweet and stylish jewellery for kids features bright and hypoallergenic pieces inspired by travel, nature and friendship. New and exclusive to Shoppers Drug Mart. Starting at $8.​

Baby Doll

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

On the Fly

Fun (mostly tech-free!) holiday gifts for little ones

Merry and Bright Bracelets

Joe Fresh's new collection of sweet and stylish jewellery for kids features bright and hypoallergenic pieces inspired by travel, nature and friendship. New and exclusive to Shoppers Drug Mart. Starting at $6.